Monday, February 27, 2017

Not every monster has claws—not every beauty is kind.
Born a princess, raised to be queen, but living as a servant, Avalyn never realized she would pay the price for her father’s mistakes. Now Avalyn is living in a castle not her own, a slave to an evil witch who wants revenge on the man who betrayed her trust and ruined her.
For Avalyn, her real punishment has yet to begin.
She will be cursed to work for the witch for the next one hundred years unless true love can find its way into the castle and into her heart.
Now the princess’s freedom rests in the hands of a lowly thief who cares only for himself.Author Konstanz Silverbow
Konstanz Silverbow has always been a dreamer . . . but not a writer. Being an author was something she was dragged into. But since that day, she hasn't stopped. It has become more than a hobby, it is a passion.
During the day Konstanz works, making jewelry, playing the violin, collecting dragons, and learning all she can about medieval weapons. But at night she creates made up worlds and places where those dragons come to life and the weapons are used in battle."
Proud Creator of magical worlds, fictional creatures, ideal super heroes and sarcasm since 2007!

Blast Giveaway
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 3/19/17
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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Thursday, February 23, 2017

When Miss Coralynn Notley’s father barters her off to the first titled gentleman to come along, she realizes she must flee her home or be forced to wed a despicable man. Driven by desperation, she applies for the position of housekeeper at Tanglewood Manor, the home of the handsome Mr. Jonathan Ludlow. The moment Jonathan sees Miss Notley, he is intrigued. She is far too young and inexperienced, yet there is something about her that that inspires a certain hope within him. Does he dare offer her the position of housekeeper or will doing so result in catastrophe?

~Excerpt~

Cora nodded and followed Mr. Ludlow into the parlor. He closed the doors and stood in front of them with his arms folded, looking far more intimidating than he had during their last meeting. He said nothing, merely lifted an inquiring eyebrow and waited.

Caught unprepared, Cora stared at him, trying to organize her thoughts into words. After a few moments of awkward silence, he lost patience. "What is it you wished to speak with me about, Mrs. Notley? Or are we to stand here staring at each other all afternoon?"

Not knowing how else to begin, Cora blurted, "Why have you hired me, sir?"

He blinked a few times before frowning. "I believe I have made that perfectly clear. You are to be the housekeeper, are you not?"

This was going to be more difficult than she had imagined. "Yes, of course, but there has been some talk about, or rather concerns expressed . . ." How did one put this delicately?

"About . . .?" he prodded, obviously not thrilled that his morning regime had been waylaid.

"About the reasons I have been offered the position," she quickly said, hoping that would be enough to make him understand her meaning.

Unfortunately, his brows drew together in confusion. "What are you saying, Mrs. Notley? I have hired you to do certain duties that will hopefully make my household run more smoothly. What other reason could I possibly have for offering you the position?"

"You have hired me to do a job I am untrained to do," she said. "While I am grateful for the opportunity, I also find it necessary to clarify that I have come here to be a housekeeper and only a housekeeper. Even though I am young and . . ." Her voice drifted off. Had she almost referred to herself as pretty? Goodness, this was proving to be very awkward indeed.

"Beautiful?" he finally guessed, not looking at all pleased with the direction the conversation was taking.

"I was going to say not repulsive," she fibbed.

"Very well," he said. "Even though you are young and not repulsive . . ." He moved his hand in a circular gesture, urging her to finish her thought.

Cora straightened her shoulders and forced herself to continue. "I am not the sort of girl who would ever . . . fraternize with her employer." Her face infused with heat, but she forced her gaze to remain steady.

"I see." He walked slowly towards her, rubbing his chin with his hand. A few steps away, he stopped and eyed her quizzically. "Have I made any improper advances towards you?"

"No, sir."

"Have I spoken to you in an unprofessional manner?"

"No."

"Have I looked at you in a way that has made you feel uncomfortable?"

"No." Cora suddenly wished she had not felt the need to clarify anything. He made her feel as though she had put the cart before the horse when what she had been trying to do was see that the cart and horse simply stayed in their proper places. Was that so wrong?

"Might I ask who, exactly, has led you to believe that I am the sort of man capable of—how did you put it? Fraternizing with my help?"

"I, er, would rather not say, sir." Though Cora felt no loyalty towards Sally, she refused to bring Mr. and Mrs. Shepherd's names into the conversation. "I did not mean to besmirch your name or cause any offense, Mr. Ludlow. I merely wanted to make my feelings on the matter clear."

She was almost to the door when his voice stopped her. "Once again, you are attempting to scuttle away before we have completed our conversation."

Slowly, she turned around and lifted her eyes to his. "I never scuttle, sir."

"What would you call that rapid walk of yours?"

"A rapid walk."

~Author Rachael Anderson~

A USA Today bestselling author, Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway
Ends 3/15/17
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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Tuesday, February 21, 2017

From USA Today bestselling author Annette Lyon comes a captivating historical novella. In 1905 Shelley, Idaho, Della Stafford hates being a farm girl in a tiny town. She’ll do anything to live in a big city and experience real city life. Her only regret is that leaving town also means leaving Joseph behind, the young man who makes her heart flutter. But she's convinced that moving away is for the best; her dreams and Joseph's dreams are too dissimilar. So Della takes a job as a maid in Los Angeles, where she learns that what she thought would make her happy and what really will are totally different things.

PERFECTLY IMPERFECT originally appeared in the best-selling and award-winning Timeless Romance Anthology series's OLD WEST collection, under the title A SWEETEST TASTE.

Jewelz Review~This is a sweet "grass is always greener" story. Della is convinced that she won't be happy until she's able to leave the small farm town of Shelley, Idaho — she simply must move to the big city. She just isn't cut out for working on the farm and the simple life of small-town Idaho. When she gets the opportunity to move to Los Angeles she almost doesn't think twice. Of course, there's Joseph. He's perfect for Della in every way, except that he is also perfectly content in Shelley, Idaho working the land. Nonetheless, Della moves to LA to experience the big city, where she knows she will finally truly happy. But, as we all know — things always look better from a distance and absence can make the heart grow fonder.FYI~ clean readHonest disclosure~ I received a review copy from the authorAbout Annette Lyon~Annette Lyon is a USA Today bestselling author, a 4-time recipient of Utah’s Best in State medal for fiction (twice for novel-length works and twice for short fiction), and a Whitney Award winner for BAND OF SISTERS. She's the author of over a dozen novels, at least that many novellas, a cookbook, a popular grammar guide, and over a hundred magazine articles.

She’s a founder and regular contributor of the Timeless Romance Anthologies line of sweet romance stories, which she served as editor for its first three years. She's also one of the four co-authors of The Newport Ladies Book Club series. She graduated cum laude from BYU with a degree in English.

A BRUSH WITH THE LAW by Janette RallisonBethany has endured a streak of depressing Valentine’s Days. And this one is turning out no different. Her friend set her up on a blind date—and Bethany can only hope that James will be a decent guy. But it seems the fated day has other plans, and Bethany finds herself in the middle of a comedy of errors that make a blind date with a stranger the least of her problems.

EVERY OCCASION by Heather B. MooreWhen Maurie moves back to her hometown to open up her dream shop, she calls a local construction crew for help. Former teenage crush Grant shows up on her front porch, answering the call for the construction job, and Maurie’s memories of her troubled childhood return with full force. When she discovers Grant has a troubled past of his own, Maurie realizes that she might have misjudged him all along.

HOLD YOUR BREATH by Jenny ProctorAs Kayla trains for the Olympic swimming trials, she vows to never let another boyfriend get in her way. When she finds out her younger sister’s new high school swim coach is Nate—the guy Kayla had a huge crush on when they were in school together—Kayla realizes that her resolve is weakening. But Kayla isn’t willing to risk giving up her Olympic dream for anyone, not even charming Nate.

THE ULTIMATE BACHELOR CHALLENGE by Annette LyonWhen Sam’s long-time boyfriend, Steve, texts that he has something important to ask her on Valentine’s Day, she’s sure that he’s going to propose. Determined to look great for the big day, she hits the all-night laundromat to wash her favorite outfit. When her clothes are chugging away in a machine, Steve calls and pops a question—not one she ever would have expected. Reeling with shock, she’s left facing the holiday alone, unless you count the other person at laundromat, a guy leaning against his own washer, intent on his phone.

DEAL BREAKERS by Heather TullisThe last place Colette wants to be stranded is the snowed-in Denver airport, especially when her sister is enduring chemo treatments and needs Colette’s help back home. When Colette runs into another stranded passenger—none other than former college boyfriend Drew—she can’t believe how much he’s changed . . . and hasn’t changed. Drew is still the same amazing guy that Colette was foolish enough to blow off for someone else. By the time she’d realized her mistake all those years ago, Drew’s heart had been too broken to give her a second chance. Now Colette can only hope that she can work her way back into his heart.

HEY, HELEN! by Sarah M. EdenOn the surface, Helen seems to have her life figured out. Her advice column, Hey, Helen!, is gaining more readers every week. She regularly hangs out with the guy next door, laughing and chatting over pizza and work. But when her feelings for her handsome neighbor begin tiptoeing toward something more than friendship, Helen can’t help hoping Neil might feel the same way. Between her own uncertainties, his friend-zone treatment of her, and a pair of loudly interfering parents, Hey, Helen! could use a little advice in love.

This story was laugh-out-loud hilarious. Poor Bethany just can't catch a break. Everything that could go wrong pretty much does. But somehow, she's able to keep her sense of humor through it all. I absolutely enjoyed every minute of this story.

EVERY OCCASION by Heather B. Moore

Maurie's story is not all lollipops and rainbows. She's had a rough life, but she's managed to have great business success and she's following that up with a brick-and-mortor store. The relationship between Maurie and Grant has depth that you don't normally find in a novella. A wonderful story for anytime of year.

HOLD YOUR BREATH by Jenny Proctor

The dream of swimming at the Olympics is the backdrop for this fun, energetic story. Kayla and Nate were on their high school swim team together, and now, several years later the Olympics are within Kayla's reach. She can't risk any distractions, but will the past repeat itself?

THE ULTIMATE BACHELOR CHALLENGE by Annette Lyon

Sam believes she's reading the signs correctly and is anticipating a proposal from her long-time boyfriend, Steve. And even though Sam is cautiously optimistic, she still manages to be completely surprised and thrown for a veritable loop (multiple times) by how Valentine's Day actually turns out. Definitely a story for "Millennials."

DEAL BREAKERS by Heather Tullis

How do you make the best of being stuck in the Denver airport overnight? In Collette's case, Providence has intervened and she is able to spend the time with Drew (the guy whose heart she broke, but whom she still might love). A second-chance romance in an unusual setting makes for a fun story that left me wanting more.

HEY, HELEN! by Sarah M. Eden

How do you weight the risks of attempting to move out of the friend zone and into a dating relationship? When the friend in question is an advice columnist, you write her column a letter in hopes she doesn't realize it's you. Then you follow said advice. This was such a fun story! I loved Helen and Neil - I didn't like Neil's parents so much, but every story needs a little sour with the sweet. I'd love a peek into the future!

FYI~ All novellas are clean with these notes: there is one story with a homosexual character and a scene where a girl is caught outside in only her underwear.

"Lindzee Armstrong is the #1 bestselling author of the No Match for
Love series and Sunset Plains Romance series. She's always had a soft spot for
love stories. In third grade, she started secretly reading romance novels,
hiding the covers so no one would know (because hello, embarrassing!), and
dreaming of her own Prince Charming.

She finally met her true love while at college, where she studied
history education. They are now happily married and raising twin boys in the
Rocky Mountains.

Like any true romantic, Lindzee loves chick flicks, ice cream, and
chocolate. She believes in sigh-worthy kisses and happily ever afters, and
loves expressing that through her writing."

When
Kate’s abusive husband dies in a house fire, she only feels relief. Eighteen
months later, she’s ready to sweep up the fragments of her past and venture
back into dating—but this time with the help of a professional matchmaking
company. Surely Toujour can succeed where Kate has always failed and find her
the perfect man.

Taylor
is a firefighter who’s tired of dousing infernos in his personal life.
Exhausted from a string of dysfunctional relationships, he turns to Toujour at
the prodding of a friend, hoping for an easier path to love. The last thing he
expects is to be matched with Kate, the intriguing widow he met on the night
her house burned. The problem is, she’s determined to leave behind any
connection to that awful night—and Taylor is a very overwhelming connection.

Past
relationship fears and old habits threaten to tear them apart before they’ve
even begun. Can the ashes of their pasts hold their happily ever after?

1.Tell us about things you enjoy
— what you do for fun or personal satisfaction besides writing? With a
full-time writing career, a husband, five-year-old twin boys, church
responsibilities, household chores and tasks, and everything else life throws
at me, I don’t have time for much else. J I’ve recently returned to playing the piano, which has been a great
stress release tool. I LOVE anything dealing with stories, so I watch a lot of
TV series on Netflix in my down time. I enjoy baking (but never cooking) so I
do that when I can as well. And of course I read a lot for fun. J

2.When did you first realize you
were an author? I literally don’t remember a time when I didn’t want to do
this. My mom says that around kindergarten or first grade, I started telling
people I would be a writer, a teacher, and a mom when I grew up. (I graduated
in history education and did my student teaching at a high school, so I’ve
stayed true to my word.) I started getting serious about writing around third
grade. That’s about when I wrote my first novel. It was probably around 150
pages, so it was really long for a kid!

3.Have you done anything
writing-related, but besides actually writing your books, that seemed to get a
lot of positive response? Something that encouraged you? I was always an
excellent student, and for about five or six years, that was my life and
writing took a back seat. I loved academia and for a while thought I might get
a Ph.D. and become a professor. But then I met my husband and my goals changed.
J

4.What is the thing you struggle
with the most while writing? And how do you defeat it? Oddly enough, it’s
creativity. My children are very demanding (as are everyone’s), and I’m
incredibly busy (as are most moms). I returned to writing when they were about
seven months old, and published my first book when they were three years old.
Being a mom is emotionally rewarding but mentally exhausting, and I often feel
like my well is dry and I have no ideas left in me. I read a lot of books,
watch a lot of TV (nothing sparks creativity like other stories), and try to
schedule down time to combat it.

5.What is the “message” of your
writing? (For example, is your purpose to encourage old-fashioned values,
encourage romance, or do you have different purposes in different books?) I
love showing that there are two sides to every story. I love writing characters
that are flawed and human, and giving readers a different perspective on
something.

6.What are your thoughts/feelings
on ebook vs. print book? eBooks are amazing. Print books are amazing. Books are
books. J I’ve gone almost entirely to ebook
myself. My kids, especially when they were little, would let me read on my
Kindle without complaint, but rip print books out of my hands and toss them
across the room. I also don’t have room for any more print books!

7.How many books do you have
out? Are you planning a specific number altogether, either in this series
or separately? I’ve published 11 books. I have two series and a few stand
alones, and I don’t have a specific number of books planned for either series.
Since each book is a romance about a different couple, the series could really
go on indefinitely. As for how many books I plan to write…how many can one
author publish in a career? J I’ve
got a lot of years and a lot of books ahead of me.

8.Are your characters/stories/scenes,
etc. based on anything in real life? It depends. Chasing Someday is very
autobiographical. It’s about three women who struggle with infertility, and I
wrote a part of my soul into each of those characters. Almost everything that
happens in that book I have personal experience with. My other books aren’t
nearly as autobiographical. I’ve been to Paris, which the characters visit in
Mix ‘N Match. I have identical twins, and the MC in First Love, Second Choice
is an identical twin. The Sunset Plains Romance series is based on a small town
in Oklahoma of which I have many fond memories. But overall, the majority of my
books aren’t based on anything specific.

9.What are your future projects?
I’m currently working on the next book in my No Match for Love series, Match Me
If You Can. I’ve also got plans for more in the Sunset Plains series and for a
new series that I’m keeping quiet right now. J I’m releasing 4 novels this year so there’s a lot coming up!

To view our blog schedule and follow along with this tour visit our Official Event page

Monday, February 13, 2017

Jan would rather write than eat or sleep, which is handy for authors—not so much for husbands. Her research as a nutritionist inspired an unusual murder weapon for Heir of Deceit. Favorite writing moment: meeting famous moonshiner Popcorn Sutton while during research in Asheville, North Carolina for Heir of Deceit. She has won national contests for her comedic poetry on subjects such as Black Friday and her messy kitchen. Some are included in her humor book My Word, That’s Absurd! along with her prize-winning children’s story, Miss Mousie and Mrs. McGreggor’s Closet. Jan’s quirky sense of humor could classify her as eccentric, but she prefers the term “crazy.” She is the author of two novels, Heir of Deceit and Impressions of Innocence and a non-fiction humor book, My Word, That’s Absurd! She’s going nuts deciding which of seven book ideas she wants to work on next. She loves cactus flowers, road runners, horned toads (and people). She enjoys cooking, teaching, and learning. The day she stops learning will be the day she stops breathing. She and her husband are the parents of six children. Jan wrote for a local newspaper at age 11. She worked for her high school and college journalism departments, and as a case worker, tobacco prevention coordinator, and nutritionist. In addition, she has taught religion classes to high school students for more than 31 years as a volunteer. Visit her web site at: http://janmar916.wix.com/janmmartin P.S. If you enjoy her books, she’ll love you forever if you leave a 5-star review on Amazon about them.

Praise for Heir of Deceit: "A plot that is full of questions to keep readers turning pages--secrets, lies and drama. Good Stuff!" --Bethany Miller Cole (writing as Bethany Michaels) Judge at Romance Writers of America

"This is part love story, part genealogical mystery, a little bit about redemption and quite a lot of fun for the reader." --Jonesy, Amazon Reviewer

On the eve of her wedding, Lacey uncovers a problem too large for love to conquer: a family curse which causes the women to kill the men they love, and puts her fiancé, Evs, in danger. Lacey vows to uncover the secrets of her lineage, even if it requires her ultimate sacrifice--the loss of her marriage to her beloved Evs.

Her search leads to the Smoky Mountain backwoods, where the shotgun is more respected than the law, and family may not be what is expected. HEIR OF DECEIT is set in an area, where, even today, hands of tobacco are used as currency, and moonshine stills explode.

Heir of Deceit is a clean Romantic Mystery suitable for teens and adults.

1.Tell us about things you enjoy—what do you do for fun or personal
satisfaction?

I especially enjoy studying for and
teaching early morning seminary classes to high school students, which I have
done for over 30 years. I love to learn. I read lots of non-fiction. I like to
study nutrition. I love to cook and serve a satisfying meal to my husband, and
make up recipes. I like to sing, although I’m not good at it. I like to make up
silly songs for my children. I love to find silly ideas and make up poems about
them. (Okay, that’s writing, sort of. Recreational writing). I love giving
things away. It makes me a poor salesman. I like to challenge myself to do
things that normally frighten me, such as musical solos, making up songs and
attempting to write a score for it (no training or talent—all bombs). I like to
search out little known fun facts to surprise and delight my students.

2.When did you first realize you were an author?

So long ago I can’t remember. I wrote
stories for my friends in grade school. Again in grade school, a fly kept
buzzing my head while I was having a bath. I couldn’t swat it for anything. I
wrote a ridiculous poem called “The Educated Fly” which is long lost, and which
I likely showed to no one. I like silly stuff. When I was eleven years old, I
was the reporter for our 4-H Club, the Pixie Pals. The local newspaper printed
my articles, so I guess I’ve been a published author since I was eleven! I NEVER showed my work to a soul until I
decided I needed to publish something or die!

3.Have you done anything writing-related that seemed to get a lot of
positive response that encouraged you?

Yes. I ran an Amazon giveaway that they
offer to members of KDP Select. My first giveaway ran out of winners within a
couple of hours! I ended up selling several books to non-winners, too. The
other most successful thing is attending book festivals, especially the
smaller, home town ones. These things were encouraging to me. Another thing
is—talk. Just keep talking about your book to anyone polite enough to listen. A
professional cover (My Word That’s Absurd)

helped me a lot—got a lot of buzz. Thanks, Victorine
Lieske!

4.What is the thing you struggle with the most while writing? And how
do you defeat it.

Marketing. Hands down. **Oh** I don’t
think that’s what you meant. My biggest enemy is not having time to write. When
I had a full time job plus my seminary class, which requires 3-5 hours a day
for me, I couldn’t write much because I was working 13 hours a day. I began Heir of Deceit during this time, and it
took years to finish. Now that I’m retired and have nothing to do, everyone
thinks my time is theirs. I still have seminary, plus four other church jobs.
How do I defeat it? Frankly I don’t. Everyone suggests carving out a couple of
hours every day to write. That never works for me. I have begun to turn people
down more often. Another thing I do is write all night. I don’t sleep, but,
whatever. For my first novel, I took my phone off the hook when I was home
alone. I don’t struggle much with writer’s block. I struggle with people block.

5.What is the message of your writing? Different purposes in different
books?

Mostly, I want to entertain. I want fun.
I write clean stories with characters of good moral character. My stories move
fast with lots of action. I like a twist in every chapter so the reader doesn’t
dare put it down. I like a touch of mystery and/or tragedy. I write satisfying
endings. I try to break a few molds, such as not following the “romance model”
in my romances: Boy meets girl~~boy hates girl~~they are thrust together and
fall in love~~the BIG MISUNDERSTANDING~~they make up and live happily ever
after. I do have different purposes in
different books. I have two romance/mystery novels and one non-fiction humor
book. Obviously different. I like to put humor in my novels—Heir of Deceit has a lot of humor.

6.What are your thoughts/feelings on ebook vs. print book?

I really prefer to curl up with print!
However, when my walls began to bulge, I switched to ebook. They are usually
less expensive, so I can buy more—even get some for free. They don’t take up
living space. They are more portable, and don’t weigh as much to lug around. I
can choose to open many of hundreds of books—all at once, if I want to. Of
course, electronic screens make my eyes tired. I’m hooked on ebooks. I think
authors should offer both.

7.How many books do you have out? Are you planning a specific number
altogether, either in this series or separately?

I have three books out: Heir of
Deceit; My Word That’s Absurd!; and Impressions of Innocence. “Heir” and
“Impressions” are romance/mysteries. “My Word” is a short humor book that includes some short stories, mostly true
absurd quips, slapstick poetry, and sight gags. I no longer actively market
“Impressions.” The printer messed up the print style and it looks amateurish to
me. I may re-write and re-publish it “some day.”

I have begun a stand-alone prequel for Heir of Deceit. Many readers want more
of the story of Lacey’s parents’ love
story. They also want more of Ruthella and Fergus.

Other than the prequel, I prefer
separate books. I’ve read a few series books that never end, and you have to
read book after book. I won’t purchase that kind. Gotta have an ending, even if
the characters appear in another book.

8.Are your characters/stories/scenes, etc. based on anything in real
life?

Always! How can they not be? In Heir of Deceit, every setting, place,
street, legend, and custom is absolutely real—even the restaurant menus! I
researched many hours, read at least seven books set in the area, and visited
the area so everything would be believable. ALL of the characters are completely
fictional. The story is completely fictional. I think it’s pretty original.
However, when an author makes up a character, she uses a vast knowledge of
human character(s) to model a composite, fictional character. Then, the
character takes on a life of his/her own, and develops within the book. Some of
the characters are based on my knowledge of similar people, but are definitely
NOT these people.

In Impressions
of Innocence, a good guy became a bad guy. I didn’t plan it that way, he
just went awry. “Impressions” is set in a fictional city. That didn’t work out
so very well, though.

“My Word” is a completely different kind
of book. Most of the stories, quips and sight gags are true. It also contains
fiction stories. It is a collection of silly stuff.

9.What are your future projects?

I have six projects going, most of which
I’ve written at least a start. (I think I just saw a cuckoo bird fly by):

The prequel to Heir of Deceit (Romance)

One involves an older couple who meet
briefly again in later life. (Religious theme.)

One is about a forestry project gone
wrong, and unusual things begin to happen to the people involved. (Mystery)

Another is about a young girl who meets
a preacher’s son as a child and meets up with him later in life (the dog dies).

One is a spoof on romance novels (too
many Hallmark Christmas movies here.)

Another is a non-fiction on how to
maintain a youthful look in your older years, If I can pull it off before I’m
too *#@^ old.

And if I am still alive, a re-write of Impressions of Innocence.

To view our blog schedule and follow along with this tour visit our Official Event page

Sunday, February 12, 2017

Returned by Kimberley Griffiths Little
After tragedy strikes on the day they were to wed, Jayden must support Kadesh as he ascends the throne and becomes king of Sariba. But with the dark priestess Aliyah conspiring to control the crown, and the arrival of Horeb, Jayden’s former betrothed, Kadesh’s kingdom, as well as his status as king, is at stake.
Jayden knows that the time to be merciful has come and gone, and that some enemies can only be halted by death. Now she and Kadesh must prepare to fight not only for their love, but also for their kingdom.
This is the final book in the epic trilogy that began with Forbidden and Banished. Jayden and Kadesh’s love will be put to the ultimate test as they fight a war to save their kingdom.

Praise for the Book Booklist (starred review)
“At its core, this is a romance, with all the push and pull that goes along with impossible love, and Little elevates the story by creating a perilous landscape, both outward and inward, as Jayden must deal with the hardship of desert life as well as her own desires. . . descriptions of the landscape are evocative in both desolation and in beauty. Just as good is the pacing, which gets the blood pumping for both characters and readers. This will heighten anticipation for a no-doubt exciting conclusion.”

Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“Rich historical details are deftly woven into Jayden’s narration, and the dynamics of Jayden’s tribe are vividly drawn. Jayden’s story becomes as much about finding herself as it is about finding love.”
Reader: “This book took my breath away. I loved the immersive story and the rich setting of ancient Mesopotamia. The customs, traditions, and beliefs of the desert people were captivating and every time I set the book down I couldn't wait to pick it up again. I've never read anything like this before.”
Reader: “Forbidden was so captivating that I awoke early in the morning, while my family was still sleeping, so I could finish the last pages of this beautifully haunting tale.”

~Excerpt~

My sister laid the tablet in her lap, running a finger along the symbols with affection.

“To Jayden, daughter of the Nephish

From Aliyah, Goddess of Sariba

The Goddess and High Priestess of Sariba officially invite you to witness the summer solstice sacrifice in two day’s time. It will be a night you will remember for the rest of your life. A permanent kinship with the Goddess will bless you and your family forever.”

“She sent an invitation to watch Sahmril sacrificed!” Grabbing the tablet, I threw it across the room where it hit the corner of a table and broke into pieces.

With a shriek, Leila staggered off the chair and crawled across the floor. Picking up the shards, she cradled them in her hands, trying to fit them together.

“Leila, what is wrong with you? How could you bring this despicable letter to me?”

She raised her eyes to mine. “You’ve been invited as a special guest because our little sister has been chosen to honor the Goddess. Her sacrifice will bring peace and love to this land. She is the pure vessel. We’re so lucky to have found her.”

“Lucky?” I echoed. The nonchalance manner in which she spoke was horrifying. “Our sister was hunted down for the express purpose of sacrificing her to the goddess.”

Author Kimberley Griffiths Little
Kimberley Griffiths Little is the author of ten award-winning Middle-Grade and Young Adult novels with Knopf, Scholastic and Harpercollins, including the Whitney Award, the Arizona/New Mexico Book Award, the SCBWI Crystal Kite, the Southwest Book Award, and others. ALA BOOKLIST named FORBIDDEN, the first book in her Ancient Mesopotamian historical fantasy a Young Adult Top 10 novel for the Historical category, Romance category, and Religious/Inspirational.
Kimberley adores anything old and musty with a secret story to tell. She once stayed in the haunted tower room at Borthwick Castle in Scotland and didn’t sleep a wink; sailed the Seine in Paris; ridden a camel in Petra, Jordan; shopped the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul; and spent the night in an old Communist hotel in Bulgaria. She was born in San Francisco but now lives on the banks of the Rio Grande with her husband and three sons.

Blast Giveaway
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 2/27/17
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Saturday, February 11, 2017

Angela Carling was raised in Palm Springs California, but lives Arizona with her husband, three kids and five felines. She loves reading and writing for the young adult genre and has published Unbreakable Love, Shackled, Becoming Bryn and the first three books of the Secret Keeper series. In 2012 Shackled won the silver IPGA award and has since been optioned as a screenplay. She always eats the frosting off her cake and leaves the rest, and can be caught singing in public bathrooms. When she’s not creating stories, she’s mentoring teen writers, making pizza with her family or dreaming of taking a nap, not necessarily in that order.

For months, Jesse has been envious of her twin sister Bryn and even has a crush on Bryn’s gorgeous, popular boyfriend, Quinton. When Jesse awakens from a coma to learn that everyone thinks she IS Bryn, the option of actually taking over her sister’s life is beyond tempting, but there’s a downside. She’d have to give up her relationship with Ethan, her best friend and the only person she trusts. Could she actually live s Bryn for the rest of her life? And if her family and friends found out, would they ever forgive her?

Tell us about things you enjoy — what you do for fun or personal
satisfaction besides writing?

I’m really lucky, my hubby and kids
and I love being together. When I’m not writing, I’m most often hanging out
with them, watching a movie or going on a night walk. When I want some alone
time (as most of us introverts do) I wander the garden centers at Home Depot
and Lowes looking for new plants to put in my garden.

When did you first realize
you were an author?

I told
myself stories to fall asleep and by high school, I’d accepted my authorly fate
when I looked around my bedroom and saw hundreds of poems and stories that I’d
written on pinned up butcher paper. Also, I make up words like authorly and
feel completely fine with it.

Have you done anything writing-related, but besides actually writing
your books, that seemed to get a lot of positive response? Something that
encouraged you?

I’ve had a remarkable experience mentoring teen
writers. I take on about ten teenage aspiring writers at a time and work with
them monthly. Anna Carling, who has been part of my group for three years,
actually helped me co-write my latest book in the Secret Keeper series. It is
called Belakane, the Origin of the Secret Keeper series and she was so excited
to see her name in print for the first time. She deserved it. She’s a very
talented girl and I’m proud of our work!

What is the thing you
struggle with the most while writing? And how do you defeat it?

Like most
people, I’m not good at balance. Writing is very immersive and marketing what
you’ve written super time intensive. Somewhere in there, I’m raising a family
and remodeling a large house. My solution, realize that you can’t do everything
at the same time. For example, I’m taking the next couple of months off from
marketing and going into my writing cave to finish the third book in The Secret
Keeper series. After all, the story of Winter, Liam, and the enchantress
Belakane must be told. Now!

What is the “message” of your writing? (For example, is your purpose
to encourage old-fashioned values, encourage romance, or do you have different
purposes in different books?)

My books really do vary. Shackled was
written specifically to address and warn teen girls about the signs of
relationship abuse but is tucked in a gripping story that won the book a
national award and got it optioned as a screenplay. Unbreakable Love is hopeful and sweet while
The Secret Keeper series is all about regret and the crazy unforeseen
consequences that come from our choices with a paranormal aspect thrown
in. As a person, I strongly believe each
person can make the world a better place or be their best version of
themselves. I do think that theme comes through in my writing, especially in
Becoming Bryn. The main character Jesse faces her demons in a very unique way
and comes out the other side with a very different perspective. Plus, my favorite kiss scene happens in
Becoming Bryn. Who knew melting ice cream could bring on such a hot kiss.

What are your thoughts/feelings on ebook vs. print book?

I’m a hybrid girl. I’ve been known to drop my
book in the tub while soaking, so you know, bringing the kindle in the bathroom
probably wouldn’t be a good ideaJ

How many books do you have out? Are you planning a specific number
altogether, either in this series or separately?

In October, Belakane, The Origin of
the Secret Keeper Curse, my sixth published book was placed on my bookshelf. My
writing goals have no end, for now. I’ve just begun a new sweet romance series
with three best friends and each girl gets their own book. The first book is
called Five Days, Five Kisses and is
so fun! The Secret Keeper series(which
does have an amazing romance in it) has one more book coming and then I’m
calling it good. Also, Shackled, the book I mention earlier, will have a
sequel. I wasn’t planning on it, but am so excited to tell the other half of
the story so if you pick that one up, more is on its way!

Are your characters/stories/scenes, etc. based on anything in
real life?

I think it is impossible to keep yourself out
of your characters completely. That being said, Becoming Bryn was actually
inspired by a true story of two college aged students that were in a series
accident and their identities were switch for months. After reading the story,
I started thinking, what if the girls were twins? How would that change the
outcome and experiences each would have? The bittersweet story of Jesse and
Bryn was born and honestly, it’s is one of my favorite books. Also, Ryan, one
of the main characters in Shackled is based on my intolerable cousin, but my
lips are sealed as to which one!

What are your future projects?

So I can’t keep a secret, so I’ve already mentioned them but here
they are againJ

Five Days, Five Kisses –an awkward
story of friendship, love and getting dumped over a microphone at high school
graduation.

Under The Broken Sky- the final book
in the paranormal Secret Keeper series. Finally Winter will face the creator of
the terrifying curse that has changed her life forever.

And finally, Released, the companion
book to Shackled. It’s Ryan’s turn to have his story told and in the lowest of
places, he’ll have a chance to rise to greatness.

To view our blog schedule and follow along with this tour visit our Official Event page

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Tifferz and Her Sisterz

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